What is Sarcoma?

Sarcoma is a cancerous tumor found in the bone or connective tissue, such as fat, muscles, nerves, fibrous tissues, blood vessels or deep skin tissues. There are 50 known types of sarcoma and 60 percent of all sarcomas are found in the arms and legs, but can grow anywhere. Sarcoma makes up less than one percent of all cancers and only 10,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma:

  • Legs
  • Arms
  • Pelvis

Bone Sarcoma:

  • Knee
  • Hip
  • Upper arm

SYMPTOMS

  • An unusual lump or swelling
  • Pain or tenderness if the bone is weakened or tumor is putting pressure on nerves or other neurologic structures

DETECTION

A doctor will prescribe a series of tests based on symptoms. X-ray, CT scan, MRI, bone scan and PET Scan are frequently used. A biopsy is the most definitive way to diagnose a sarcoma. It is important to seek the expertise of a sarcoma specialist if you think you may have a sarcoma.
At The James, patients are cared for by two fellowship-trained musculoskeletal oncologists – the only two in central Ohio and two of approximately 125 nationwide.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SARCOMA AND CARCINOMA

All cancers fall into one of two categories: Carcinoma or Sarcoma. Carcinomas are found in tissues that line the inside of major organs, such as the colon, lung or prostate. Sarcomas are found in bone, muscle, cartilage, connective tissues and fat.

To make an appointment, call The James Line toll-free at 1-800-293-5066 or visit cancer.osu.edu.